SLANSHEI hosts Inaugural National Education Conference

As a significant stride towards shaping the future of higher education, The Sri Lanka Association of NonState Higher Education Institutes (SLANSHEI) hosted the National Higher Education Conference focusing on the significant contribution by TNE (Transnational Education) to Higher education in Sri Lanka on November 28, 2023, at the Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo.

SLANSHEI was established in 2016 through the initiative of a few leading private higher education institutes to address the needs and provide leadership to the non- state higher education sector in the country. Its strategic plan focuses on aspects vital to the non- state higher education sector such as expansion, improving the quality and standards, attracting increasing numbers of foreign students, enhancing the research profile and research output, and promoting internationalisation.

The inauguration of the National Higher Education Conference was marked by the ceremonial lighting of the traditional oil lamp. The event was graced by the distinguished presence of the Chief Guest, Hon. Dr. Susil Premajayantha - Minister of Education, His Excellency Andrew Patrick – The British High Commissioner, along with dignitaries such as Mr. Orlando Edwards - Director British Council, Mr. Paul Eeles – CEO, Skills & Education Group, Dr. Anita Hayes from Keele University, Professor Sampath Amaratunge - Chairman of UGC-Sri Lanka, and Dr. Dayan Rajapakse, the President of SLANSHEI, as well as key local and foreign contributors to the conference.

The conference commenced with the address of the President of SLANSHEI, Dr. Dayan Rajapakse with an insightful speech, highlighting the indispensable role TNEs play in enhancing the quality and diversity of higher education offerings in the country. Dr. Rajapakse’s address underscored SLANSHEI’s commitment to fostering partnerships that transcend geographical boundaries.

Following Dr. Rajapakse’s address, Mr. Orlando Edwards, the Country Director of the British Council, took the stage to share his perspectives on the role of international collaboration in advancing the quality and global standing of Sri Lanka’s higher education system.

The much-anticipated highlight of the conference was the keynote address delivered by the Chief Guest, Hon. Minister of Education Dr. Susil Premajayantha. His speech resonated with the audience, emphasizing the government’s unwavering dedication to fostering an environment conducive to academic excellence. Minister Premajayantha articulated the policies and initiatives aimed at steering